Stroke Risk Factors

Some of the major risk factors for stroke can't be changed. But many others can.
Major Risk Factors You Can't Change
Age. The chance of developing a stroke goes up significantly after the age of 60.
This is true for both men and women.
Family history. If a parent or sibiling had a stroke , you are more at risk.
Gender. Men are more likely than women to have a stroke.
Race. African Americans are 2 to 3 times more likely to have an ischemic stroke and 2 1/2 times more likely to die from it than white Americans.
Diabetes, Having diabetes seriously increases the risk for having a stroke. If you have diabetes, it is critical that you control other risk factors as well as your diabetes.
Major Risk Factors You Can Change.
High blood pressure. This is the leading cause of strokes.
Smoking. Smoking doubles your risk for having a stroke.
High blood cholesterol levels. The higher your blood cholesterol levels, the greater your risk for a stroke.
Coronary heart disease.
Having heart disease can increase the chances of a blood clot forming.
Being sedentry. Physical inactivity increases your risk for stroke.
Being overweight. People with excess body fat are more likely to have a stroke.

Prevention
Don't smoke. Your risk for stroke drops dramatically within a few years of stopping smoking.
Control your blood pressure. Have your blood pressure checked annually. If it is high, follow your physician's advice on how to lower it.
Have your cholesterol checked every three to five years.
Keep your weight in check.
Exercise regularly. In addition to helping control weight, exercise can help lower blood pressure, relieve stress, and tone the heart and blood vessels.
Learn how to manage stress.
Follow a healthful diet. Ear more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and fewer foods that are salty or high in fat and cholesterol.
Ask your Doctor about taking an aspirin a day to prevent stroke.